Admission Process

Applicants to the Medical Scientist Training Program (MSTP) should possess:

an excellent academic record

a strong motivation to pursue a career as a physician-scientist

previous research experience outside of required laboratory courses

leadership qualities

Applying to the Vanderbilt MSTP through AMCAS:
Individuals apply to the MSTP track by selecting MD/PhD program on the American Medical College Application Service (AMCAS) forms. The admissions process at Vanderbilt requires that candidates choose either the MD or MD/PhD Program on the AMCAS application. Once the AMCAS is received by Vanderbilt, all applicants will create a user ID and password to access the secondary application online.

Application Fee: The secondary application fee to the Vanderbilt MSTP is WAIVED for all candidates.

Vanderbilt University School of Medicine uses the AMCAS Letter Service for all letters of recommendation. Applicants should solicit confidential letters of recommendation through this system from at least three individuals who can specifically address their qualifications for the dual degree. We strongly encourage applicants to submit letters from all previous research mentors.

Interview Process: Competitive applicants are invited by the MSTP to interview at Vanderbilt. The interview process includes time to meet formally and informally with faculty and students and includes dinner at the home of the director. Each applicant will also have an opportunity to meet with faculty members who are working in his or her primary area of scientific interest during the interview visit.

Admission Timeline: The application period begins June 15 with a deadline of November 1 for submission of the AMCAS application. The secondary application and letters of recommendation must be received no later than December 1 of the year prior to enrollment. Since admission is highly competitive, individuals are encouraged to complete the application by early fall. Applications to the MSTP can be received from individuals who have accepted a position in the incoming class of the School of Medicine or who are currently enrolled in the M.D. program. Students in the first year of Ph.D. training may also be considered for admission.

Deadline to submit secondary application and letters of recommendation

May 1

Last day to notify Vanderbilt of admissions decision

Admission Decisions: Admission decisions are made on a rolling basis. Early applications are strongly encouraged. Successful candidates will be notified of their acceptance to the program by the admissions committee. Unsuccessful applicants to the MSTP are not automatically considered for admission to the M.D. program in the School of Medicine. However, such applicants can request a review by the School of Medicine admissions committee by writing to the School of Medicine Office of Admission (mdadmissions@vanderbilt.edu) by November 15, 2018.

Please schedule an appointment with Dr. Megan Williams if you have questions about this process.

Access the Secondary Application. (This portal is only for applicants that have received an email to create an account and complete their application)

Commitment to Diversity

Vanderbilt University is committed to the principles of equal opportunity and affirmative action. Vanderbilt welcomes applications from all individuals who come from diverse populations that are under-represented in science or academia, including but not limited to racial and ethnic minorities, individuals from disadvantaged socio-economic backgrounds, and individuals with physical disabilities.

Vanderbilt provides accommodations for students with disabilities. The Equal Opportunity, Affirmative Action and Disability Services department is responsible for coordinating disability support services and monitoring the accessibility of programs, activities and buildings for the Vanderbilt University and Medical Center communities, consistent with the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973. The DSP staff assists departments with providing reasonable accommodations for students, faculty and staff with disabilities; ensures that Vanderbilt programs and events are accessible to the Vanderbilt community and visitors; monitors the accessibility of the university and medical center buildings; investigates disability discrimination complaints; and provides training on disability related issues. Students needing disability related assistance can contact the EAD at: http://www.vanderbilt.edu/ead/.